Gingerbread

1/2 cup boiling water
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup light molasses
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, stirred and measured
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon soda
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Brush 8-inch baking pan with oil, line with waxed or parchment paper, and oil paper lightly. Pour water over shortening; add brown sugar, molasses, and egg; beat well. Add sifted dry ingredients; beat until smooth. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 35 minutes. Serve warm or cold with butter. Makes 8 servings.

Variation
Gingerbread with Lemon Sauce: Split cooled gingerbread into two layers and fill between layers with 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese that has been blended until fluffy with a little milk or cream. Serve in squares with hot Lemon Sauce.

Lemon Sauce: Mix 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg. Gradually add 1 cup boiling water; cook over low heat until thick and clear. Add 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind, and 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; blend thoroughly. Makes 1 1/3 cups.

Note: Lemon Sauce may be made quickly and easily in microwave.